How to Buy a Good Quality Door Latch

There comes a time in every car door’s life when the latch just doesn’t catch the way it used to. Age, weather, lack of lubrication, and repeated opening and closing take their toll on this little metal mechanism, leading to its eventual demise. If your door is sticking, the handle is stiff and doesn’t trigger the latch as easily as it should, or maybe you can’t even get the door to open or close, the latch may be broken.

How to make sure you’re getting a good quality door latch

Make sure you’re getting the right kind – there are bear claw latches (the most common in passenger vehicles) and bear jaw latches (these can be found most frequently in convertibles and classic cars).

Look for OE-replacement quality or buy OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). With original equipment manufacturer parts, you know that the door latch will fit your vehicle – no worries of aftermarket fitment problems.

Check out the warranty. Yes, door latches frequently come with warranties. This isn’t a terribly inexpensive part – it may run you around $50 or more – so you do want some assurance that it’s going to last for a while.

Related questions

Q: Door ajar light is on and the cab lights won't turn off while driving

Hi there. From the description you have provided, this is probably the result of a failed door ajar light switch. The door ajar switch is part of the door latch assembly. It may have to be replaced as an assembly....

Q: My car thinks the trunk is always open

This condition is likely caused by the door latch not recognizing that the door is closed. This could be due to mis-alignment of the door, a faulty latch, or a faulty striker. Another possible cause is the improper closing/latching of...

Q: No key detected warning

Hi. It sounds to me like your battery ran out of juice. It's most likely that the battery inside your key died and simply needs replacement. When your battery dies in your key you should be able to start your...